My Ex and I Are Going to Share 50/50 Custody; how close Should We Live to Each Other?

Look, you’re getting divorced, and you’re not a big fan of your soon-to-be ex.

This probably means you don’t really want to leave nearby.

You want distance and to start a new life.

That makes complete sense. Don’t blame you in the least.

But, you’re going to share 50/50 custody, and that brings with it some limitations.

The biggest limitation is this: you won’t be able to livev very far apart from your ex.

What I mean by not very far apart is at most 20 miles.

Ideally, you want to live 5 or fewer miles apart.

Here’s why:

  1. Driving more than 20 miles to take kids to school, church, or to activities isn’t sustainable.

20 miles usually means 30+ minutes one way. Parents can handle that type of drive time for a while, but, in my experience, they can’t do it for more than about a year.

What this means is the parent who has to drive 20+ miles stops exercising as much parent-time. It’s just too much for most people.

Make it easy on yourself, live within 5 miles of your ex.

  1. Kids tend to have better social lives if both parents live near each other.

When you live close to your ex, your kids are never very far apart from their friends, which means they interact with them more often. If you live 20+ miles away from your ex, you kids will probably live two separate lives.

  1. You’ll probably have a better parenting relationship with your ex.

When exes live close, they tend to interact and communicate more, which allows them to have a better parenting relationship. This benefits you and your kids.

For example, a better relationship means less conflict and stress. And, you’ll cooperate more with each other (e.g., taking the kids when something unexpected comes up). Better communication also means you’ll be able to openly discuss issues and make good decisions about your kids.

Call Brown Family Law

If you find yourself facing a Utah divorce, please call 801.685.9999 for an in-person consultation, or use our online scheduling tool.

Protect Your Money And Your Family

We remove fear associated with divorce, protect your money & maximize time with your kids!

We're here to help. Let's determine your best options.

Call Us 24//7 at 801-685-9999 to Speak with a Live Representative

Utah Divorce FAQs
Top 100 Divorce Blog
What Clients Are Saying…
BrownLaw icon
Excellent
Brown Family Law
4.8
Based on 930 reviews
I absolutely believe that Brown Family Law is the best divorce attorney law firm in Utah. Attorney Ray Hingson did a fantastic job for me in a complicated divorce. He was there to guide me through the entire process. Ray touched base with me every week AND every time I called with worries or concerns. He handled things confidently and professionally. He took time to meet with me and explain everything so I could understand it. I felt like he really cared and wanted to do his best for me. His paralegal, Carren Leavitt, was also extremely helpful. All I had to do was pick up the phone and call her and she arranged a time for Ray to call me right back. She was always prompt and caring. I couldn't be happier!
Anne and Josh are Fantastic!!
I couldn’t have done it without Nathaniel Garrabrandt and the Brown Family Law truly the best experience and people to work with thank you!!
Brown Family Law is likely the most outstanding Family Law office in Utah. They care deeply about each client, responds quickly to every client question and concerns. If anyone is in a situation of divorce and/or child custody, I highly recommend this office to assist you with your rights. They stand firmly behind their clients.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Craig.
I can’t say enough good things about Clay Randle and Katrina Redd. They were both incredibly professional, responsive, and knowledgeable throughout my case. Their experience and advice were invaluable, and I truly appreciated their support every step of the way.
Daniel was patient, efficient, professional, and kind. Brown Family Law was easy to work with and very competent. Highly recommend.
Muchas gracias, professionales. Me ayudaron con mi caso, gracias.
Leilani Whitmer was my attorney for mediation day at the provo 4th district court on May 9th and absolutely knocked it out of the park. She made the process so smooth and easy I'd recommend her for any family law issue you could possibly fathom.
Clay Randle is absolutely amazing, well educated, knowledgeable lawyer. He’s approached, always makes sure you’re on the top of the situation and very helpful. I’ve had a pleasure working with him and I recommend him as your top notch attorney.
Brown Family Law has been wonderful to work with! Extremely knowledgeable and professional. Clay went the extra effort in everything he did for us. Couldn’t be more pleased!! I highly recommend their services.
yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7

Categories